Lynda's Story

Lynda after

Lynda before

I have my life back!As long as I can remember, I have struggled with my weight. Even as a child it bothered me. I tried many diets over the years, but with little to no success. My blood pressure was rising and my health was declining. The final straw was when I had to buy an even larger dress size than the size 28 I was already wearing. I just couldn’t bring myself to spend more money on bigger and uglier clothes. And I didn’t want to die young. That’s when I decided to investigate Bariatric surgery.

It’s a MiracleI had the Roux-en-Y procedure in June 2007. In the 10 months since my surgery, I have lost 126 pounds, nine dress sizes and one shoe size. I lost a whole person and 10 bags of clothes! Most importantly, I have my life and my health back. I can sit in chairs. I can fit behind the wheel of my car. I can see my feet and ankles and even touch them! I can walk up stairs without getting winded, and I have so much energy I don’t want to go to sleep at night. It’s a miracle.

Incredible SupportFrom the first moment I met them, the staff at the Banner Gateway Bariatric Center were so supportive. They guided me through every step of the process as I prepared for my surgery and recovery. They coached me through the lifestyle changes required by the surgery and gave me the confidence I needed to be successful. They treated me like family. I owe a big thank you to my husband and family as well. They were by my side every step of the way, encouraging me and supporting me. Bariatric surgery is a lifelong commitment and I know both my family and the Bariatric Center staff will always be there for me any time I might need them.

I owe Dr. Podkameni and the Banner Gateway Bariatric staff my life – a brand new life. I am a much happier and healthier person today. They will never truly know how much they changed my life for the better.